anabolic steroid

any of a group of synthetic steroid hormones that promote the growth of tissue, especially muscle tissue, and have been misused by athletes to increase muscle size and strength

anabolic steroid

noun

Any of a group of synthetic steroid hormones that promote the storage of protein and the growth of tissue, sometimes used by athletes to increase muscle size and strength. Nonprescription sale of anabolic steroids was declared illegal in the United States in 1990.